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Introduction
Earning crypto on everyday purchases is finally here. The market took a hit after the 2022 crypto winter, with several cards shutting down or dropping crypto rewards. But now, the space is stabilizing: established issuers are refining their offerings, and new players are entering.
This article breaks down the best crypto credit cards available today, so you can turn regular spending into crypto rewards.
Understanding Crypto Credit Cards
What Are Crypto Credit Cards?
A crypto credit card functions exactly like a regular credit card with one key difference: instead of earning cash back, airline miles, or points, you earn crypto rewards. You're still spending fiat currency (i.e.USD), but your purchases generate rewards in digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other crypto.
These cards are issued through partnerships between crypto exchanges or fintech companies and established payment networks like Visa and Mastercard. This means you can use them at millions of merchants worldwide, just like any other credit card.
How Crypto Credit Cards Work
The process is straightforward:
Apply and qualify based on standard creditworthiness criteria
Make purchases using fiat currency as usual
Earn crypto rewards automatically deposited to your account
Manage rewards through the provider's platform
The key advantage is maintaining your existing crypto holdings while passively accumulating more through everyday spending.
Credit Cards vs. Crypto Debit Cards
The distinction is similar to regular credit cards vs debit cards:
Crypto Credit Cards let you borrow up to a credit limit and repay later, earning crypto rewards along the way. Your existing crypto remains untouched.
Crypto Debit Cards draw directly from your crypto balance, converting digital assets to fiat at the point of sale. You're actually spending your cryptocurrency.
Credit cards offer more flexibility and stronger reward structures, while debit cards provide spending discipline and eliminate borrowing risks.
Top Crypto Credit Cards Available
Gemini Credit Card
Top Pick for Most Users
The Gemini Credit Card stands out as the most accessible and rewarding option for everyday crypto accumulation.
Key Features:
4% back on gas and EV charging (up to $300 monthly spending)
3% back on dining
2% back on groceries
1% back on all other purchases
Rewards Flexibility: Choose from over 50 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and lesser-known altcoins. You can change your reward cryptocurrency anytime through the Gemini app, and rewards are deposited instantly upon transaction completion.
Benefits:
No annual fee
No foreign transaction fees
$200 crypto welcome bonus (spend $3,000 in first 90 days)
Advanced security features including no visible card number
Drawbacks:
Reward caps on bonus categories
US availability only
Requires Gemini account
Best For: Everyday spenders wanting maximum flexibility in crypto rewards without staking requirements.
Crypto.com Visa Signature Credit Card
Best for Crypto.com Ecosystem Users
This card offers a tiered system that rewards deeper engagement with the Crypto.com platform.
Tiered Reward Structure:
Midnight: 1.5% CRO (no staking required)
Ruby: 3.5% CRO ($500 CRO stake or $4.99/month)
Jade/Indigo: 4.5% CRO ($5,000 CRO stake or $29.99/month)
Icy/Rose: 6% CRO ($50,000 CRO stake)
Obsidian: 6% CRO ($500,000 CRO stake)
Additional Benefits: Higher tiers include subscription rebates (Netflix, Spotify), airport lounge access, and enhanced lifestyle perks.
Benefits:
No annual fee
Multiple tier options
Rich lifestyle benefits at higher levels
Welcome bonuses ranging from $100 to $2,500 CRO
Drawbacks:
Complex tier structure
Requires significant staking for best rewards
Rewards only in CRO cryptocurrency
Best For: Users already invested in the Crypto.com ecosystem willing to stake substantial amounts for premium benefits.
Coinbase One Card (Launching Fall 2025)
Most Anticipated Launch
Coinbase's entry into credit cards represents a significant market development, partnering with American Express for premium positioning.
Expected Features:
Up to 4% Bitcoin rewards
Metal card design with Bitcoin genesis block engraving
American Express network benefits
Exclusive to Coinbase One subscribers
Anticipated Benefits:
Full AmEx protections and perks
Integration with Coinbase's robust platform
Focus on Bitcoin accumulation
Premium positioning and design
Expected Drawbacks:
Requires paid Coinbase One membership
Limited to Bitcoin rewards initially
Waitlist currently required
Best For: Coinbase users seeking premium American Express benefits while accumulating Bitcoin.
Venmo Credit Card with Cash Back to Crypto
Best Hybrid Option
While not a true crypto credit card, Venmo's crypto conversion feature offers an interesting alternative.
Reward Structure:
3% cash back in your top spending category
2% back in your second-place category
1% back on all other purchases
Crypto Conversion: The "Cash Back to Crypto" feature automatically converts earnings into Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, or Bitcoin Cash.
Benefits:
No annual fee
Flexible spending categories
No additional fees for crypto conversion (spread applies)
Easy toggling of crypto feature
Drawbacks:
Not direct crypto rewards
Conversion spreads reduce value
Limited cryptocurrency options
Best For: Venmo users wanting simple exposure to cryptocurrency without complexity.
Key Features to Compare
Reward Rates and Structure
Do you prefer flat-rate rewards or category bonuses? Flat rates offer simplicity, while category bonuses can maximize returns if they align with your spending patterns. Look out for caps as some cards limit high-rate categories to specific monthly spending amounts.
Supported Cryptocurrencies
Think about your crypto portfolio goals. Bitcoin-only cards offer simplicity but less diversification. Multi-crypto platforms provide flexibility but may complicate tax reporting. Consider whether you can change your reward cryptocurrency selection over time.
Fees and Costs
Beyond annual fees, examine foreign transaction fees, interest rates, and any platform-specific charges. Some cards require paid memberships or staking commitments that effectively function as fees.
Additional Benefits
Welcome bonuses can provide substantial initial value. Lifestyle perks like subscription rebates or airport lounge access add value for frequent travelers. Security features and fraud protection should also factor into your decision.
Tax Implications and Important Considerations
Understanding Crypto Reward Taxation
The IRS hasn't provided definitive guidance on crypto credit card rewards, creating uncertainty for cardholders. Based on existing regulations and expert interpretations, two scenarios are possible:
Rebate Treatment: If rewards are considered rebates (like traditional cash back), they're not taxable when received. Your crypto would have a cost basis equal to its fair market value when deposited.
Income Treatment: If card companies issue Form 1099, rewards become taxable income at their dollar value when received.
When Rewards Become Taxable
Disposing of crypto rewards definitely triggers tax obligations. Selling, trading, or spending reward cryptocurrency creates capital gains or losses based on value changes since receipt.
Best Practices for Tax Compliance
Maintain records of all reward receipts
Track fair market values at time of reward deposit
Document any subsequent transactions involving rewards
Consult qualified tax professionals for personalized guidance
Consider using crypto tax software to manage reporting complexity
Security and Risk Considerations
Crypto rewards are subject to market volatility. A 3% Bitcoin reward could increase or decrease significantly in value. Treat crypto rewards as part of your overall investment strategy, not guaranteed cash equivalents.
Credit cards remain debt instruments regardless of reward types. Interest charges can quickly eliminate any reward value, making timely payments essential.
The Future of Crypto Credit Cards
The market shows signs of recovery and maturation. Regulatory clarity continues improving, with the IRS implementing new reporting requirements that should reduce uncertainty over time.
Expect more traditional financial institutions to enter the space as crypto adoption grows. This competition should drive innovation in reward structures, fee reduction, and user experience improvements.
Technology developments like instant crypto conversion and improved mobile integration will likely enhance user experiences. Meanwhile, stablecoin integration might reduce volatility concerns for some users.
Conclusion
Crypto credit cards represent a compelling opportunity to accumulate crypto through everyday spending. While options remain limited compared to traditional rewards cards, the available choices cater to different user preferences and crypto strategies.
The Gemini Credit Card offers the best combination of flexibility, rewards, and accessibility for most users. Crypto.com's tiered system appeals to platform loyalists willing to stake for enhanced benefits. Coinbase's upcoming launch could reshape the premium segment. Success with crypto credit cards requires balancing reward optimization with responsible credit management and tax compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are crypto credit cards safe to use?
Yes, crypto credit cards from established providers offer the same security protections as traditional credit cards. They're backed by major payment networks and include fraud monitoring, dispute resolution, and liability protections. However, you'll need to consider the additional security of your crypto rewards once deposited.
How do crypto rewards work exactly?
When you make purchases, the card issuer calculates your reward percentage and converts that dollar amount into cryptocurrency at current market rates. These rewards are typically deposited into your account with the card provider, where you can hold, trade, or withdraw them.
What are the main tax implications?
Crypto rewards may be taxable as income when received, depending on how they're structured. They're definitely taxable when you sell, trade, or spend them. The tax treatment isn't entirely clear, so maintaining good records and consulting tax professionals is essential.
Can I convert crypto rewards to cash?
Most providers allow you to sell crypto rewards for cash, though fees and conversion spreads may apply. Some platforms offer more liquidity and better rates than others, so this varies by card issuer.
Do I need to already own cryptocurrency to get these cards?
No, crypto credit cards work like traditional credit cards. You don't need existing crypto holdings, just creditworthiness for approval. However, you'll need to create an account with the card provider to receive and manage your crypto rewards.
What credit score do I need?
Credit requirements vary by issuer but generally align with premium rewards cards. Most require good to excellent credit (scores above 670-700). Some providers may be more flexible, especially those focused primarily on crypto services rather than traditional banking.
About Arch
Arch is building a next-gen wealth management platform for individuals holding alternative assets. Our flagship product is the crypto-backed loan, which allows you to securely and affordably borrow against your crypto. We also offer access to bank-grade custody, trading and staking services.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Cryptocurrency investments are volatile and risky. Always conduct your own research before making investment decisions.